The following examples highlight some of the key investments that H.R.1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, would make to fight international terrorism, bolster diplomacy, strengthen global health initiatives, and fund vital humanitarian assistance programs around the world.

Strengthening diplomacy.H.R.1105 includes $4.2 billion, $464 million above Fiscal Year 2008, for diplomatic operations and to fill an estimated 500 existing vacancies in the Foreign and Civil Service. At a time when non-military solutions are required to address many of the national security challenges we face, these funds will help build our diplomatic capacity and ensure America’s strong diplomatic presence around the world.

Promoting development efforts. The bill would provide $808.5 million for the U.S. Agency for International Development, an increase of $178 million above Fiscal Year 2008, to hire an additional 300 Foreign Service Officers. These funds are essential to support U.S. economic and humanitarian initiatives worldwide, including the U.S. mission in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Expanding global health initiatives. The bill would provide $7.1 billion for global health programs, including $5.5 billion for international HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care programs as well as $1.6 billion to fight malaria, tuberculosis and also fund vital maternal and child health programs and international family planning initiatives. This funding is central to the overall United States health and development agenda and will save millions of lives overseas.

Addressing humanitarian needs around the globe. H.R.1105 includes $971 million for refugee assistance to deliver basic needs to displaced people around the world, including assistance for Gaza. The bill also would provide $350 million in disaster assistance to avert famines and provide critical assistance during natural disasters. These amounts are $104 million and $30 million, respectively, above Fiscal Year 2008 funding levels.

Supporting international peacekeeping activities. The bill would provide $1.5 billion in support of U.N. peacekeeping missions around the world, including in Sudan, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kosovo and Lebanon.

Bolstering international narcotics control and law enforcement.H.R.1105 includes $875 million, $321 million above Fiscal Year 2008, to strengthen law enforcement, support counternarcotics efforts, and combat transnational crime, terrorist networks and other illicit enterprises worldwide.

Promoting clean energy and protecting the environment worldwide. The bill includes $424 million for clean energy and biodiversity programs around the world, including funding for the Global Environmental Facility and international conservation programs to work with developing nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, preserve parks, and protect wildlife.